“The big issue is being able to distribute flows throughout the region, as well as within each island. The challenge is managing flows in the most popular tourist attractions, and this is achieved through data management, monitoring, and tourism intelligence,” the tourism expert stated in a statement to Lusa news agency.

The professor at the University of the Azores (UAc) warns that “tourist pressure already exists in some areas” in the region and suggests conducting studies to determine the carrying capacity of the areas most sought after by tourists.

Daniela Fantoni Alvares also proposes “the use of new technologies” to manage flows.

"It's possible to alert tourists, in real time and through apps, not to visit a certain area if it already has a high number of tourists," she explains.

The university professor believes that those involved in the sector should "define and implement strategies to maximize the benefits" and "minimize the costs associated" with tourism.

"Defining growth limits, in my view, is one of the top priorities. What is the carrying capacity of each attraction? How many tourists can each island accommodate within a sustainable framework?" she asks.

With a background in Planning and Tourism, Daniela Fantoni Alvares emphasizes the importance of "balancing economic growth with the quality of life of communities."

"Defining growth limits is equally relevant for the well-being of Azorean residents, as well as for ensuring a quality experience for tourists," she insists.

The UAc assistant professor also proposes a "more sustainable" transportation model, as the excessive use of rental cars can lead to "increased pressure on public spaces" and pollution.

"We need to invest in a more sustainable model, with the development of public transportation in the Azores. More efficient urban mobility that makes life easier for residents and allows tourists to explore our resources," she argues, citing the investment in bicycles and bike paths as an example.

The university professor warns that the Azores are at a "strategic moment," but "there is still time to control and define the type of tourism they desire."

Daniela Fantoni Alvares emphasizes, however, that the certification as the "world's first sustainable archipelago" is "recognition of a lot of work."

"We need to look at the experiences of established destinations and see their successes and failures. We need to see what we want to become and be clear about what we need to avoid to avoid becoming a mass destination," she emphasizes.

In 2019, the Azores received EarthCheck's certification as the world's first sustainable archipelago, and were upgraded to "gold" status in November 2024.

The Azores recorded more than 516,000 overnight stays in tourist accommodations in June, a 3.2% increase compared to the same period last year, according to data released by the Regional Statistics Service (SREA).